The noise around Kevin Durant is starting to grow. The Oklahoma City Thunder star is set to be an unrestricted free agent in 2016, but like Rajon Rondo and Kevin Love before him, many believe he could get traded at some point before that contract expires. This type of hype is expected. Durant has not hinted at all about what he plans to do in free agency. That is not going to stop every team in the league from keeping their fingers cross for a trade and the New York Knicks will certainly be one of them.
Everything regarding the future of Durant is pure speculation right now. No one knows what the Thunder is going to do as he maintains his commitment to Oklahoma City and the franchise. However, this is the NBA and everyone is hoping for some drama. The x-factor for a decision on Durant could come down to Russell Westbrook who is currently playing lights out with the Thunder on his back.
ESPN analyst Tom Penn believes there is a real chance that Durant gets traded considering how well Westbrook is playing right now. Granted the Thunder are 3-3 with Westbrook despite his numerous triple-doubles while averaging 34.4 points on 43.5 percent shooting, but the point guard is a star capable of carrying a team. So what does that mean for Durant? Penn believes that general manager Sam Presti will seek some kind of commitment from Durant before his contract expires and if he does not get the answer he wants, the star could get the James Harden treatment and be traded.
Is Durant getting traded? The likely answer is no. The Thunder are very aware they are better with him than without him regardless of what happens with his expiring contract. Trading away Durant could be trading away a championship. However, teams are ready incase the Thunder make a move. The Los Angeles Lakers have him at the top of the list as do the New York Knicks since both teams can afford to take on his contract.
The Knicks are already targeting big names like Kevin Love and Rajon Rondo. Why not add Durant to the list? New York cannot afford another season like this one. Carmelo Anthony is planning to recruit everyone he possibly can. Could he share the court with Durant? Knicks fans would certainly hope so.
